Socio-economic Dimensions of Seaweed Farming in Solomon Islands

The major objective of this study is to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the socio-economic  dimensions of seaweed farming in the Solomon Islands as part of a global review of the social and economic dimensions of seaweed aquaculture. Due to the available time and financial budget provided, the Wagina seaweed farming community, one of the four major seaweed production areas in the Solomon Islands, was selected for carrying out an indepth field survey. The selection was made in close cooperation with the Aquaculture Division of the Solomon Island’s Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR).

Field survey data collected on Wagina island, Choiseul Province, has been complemented by key informant interviews including staff from relevant governmental and non-governmental institutions, agents and exporters regarding perceptions of the potential of seaweed production, its problems and possible solutions. Secondary information was researched and relevant information summarized to provide a sound historic background on the Solomon Island’s seaweed farming, in particular in view of governmental and non-governmental support in the establishment, dissemination and commercialization of seaweed farming activities and produce, marketing channels, production and farm-gate price development.